warten auf
wait for
Definition & meaning
The expression warten auf is a separable verb phrase used to indicate that someone is expecting or staying in a place until a specific event happens, a person arrives, or something becomes available.
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To wait for (someone/something): To stay in one place or delay action until a particular person arrives or a specific thing occurs. Example: "Ich warte auf den Bus." (I am waiting for the bus.)
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To await: In a more formal sense, it implies being prepared for an inevitable occurrence. Example: "Es wartet viel Arbeit auf uns." (A lot of work awaits us.)
Grammar & Word origin
warten auf is a phrasal construction consisting of the verb warten and the preposition auf .
- Grammar: It is a prepositional verb that requires the accusative case. When you wait for someone or something, you use the structure: warten + auf + [Akkusativobjekt].
- Origin: The verb warten originates from the Old High German wartēn, meaning to watch, guard, or pay attention. This explains why the root meaning involves keeping an eye on the arrival of something.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- erwarten (to expect/await)
- harren (to wait for, often used in a more poetic or patient sense)
- entgegensehen (to look forward to/await)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Ich warte schon lange auf den Bus.other
I have been waiting for the bus for a long time.
Die Kinder warteten geduldig auf das Essen.other
The children waited patiently for the meal.
Worauf wartest du vor dem Kino?other
What are you waiting for in front of the cinema?
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